Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike is the captivating and candid autobiography of Phil Knight, the co-founder of Nike, one of the most iconic and successful brands in the world. Knight’s journey began in 1962 when, fresh out of business school, he borrowed $50 from his father and set out with a simple mission: to import high-quality athletic shoes from Japan. From humble beginnings—selling shoes from the trunk of his Plymouth in his first year, with only $8,000 in sales—Nike grew to become a global powerhouse with annual sales exceeding $30 billion.
Through this memoir, Knight offers an intimate look into the trials, triumphs, and pivotal moments that shaped the company and his own entrepreneurial journey. With a blend of humility, humor, and insight, Knight takes readers through his most defining experiences, from the early risks and setbacks to the successes and breakthroughs that ultimately built Nike into a household name.
In Shoe Dog, Knight reflects on the challenges of starting a business, from competing with industry giants to navigating financial hurdles and personal struggles. He details the essential role his early partners and employees played in helping to create a company culture driven by a shared mission, a deep belief in the spirit of sport, and a relentless determination to succeed.
This memoir is not only a tale of building a global brand, but also an exploration of the lessons learned along the way: about perseverance, overcoming adversity, and staying true to one's vision. It's a must-read for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, business, and the power of passion and purpose in building something lasting.
